Sharjeel Memon asks Fazlur Rehman to withdraw remarks on martyrs

Senior Sindh Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon has urged Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman to withdraw his recent remarks about Pakistan’s armed forces and the country’s martyrs. He said the comments had caused pain to the families of soldiers who sacrificed their lives in the line of duty and had created unnecessary controversy at a time when the nation should remain united.

Speaking at a press conference in Karachi, Memon said he holds great respect for Maulana Fazlur Rehman as a senior political leader. However, he believed that reconsidering the statement would be the right step in the larger national interest. He said withdrawing the remarks would not reduce the Maulana’s political stature but would instead reflect maturity and leadership.

Memon said every individual can make mistakes and there is nothing wrong with correcting them. He added that accepting an error strengthens public confidence rather than weakening it.

The senior minister stressed that the sacrifices made by Pakistan’s armed forces and martyrs should never become part of political debate. He said thousands of soldiers have laid down their lives while defending the country’s sovereignty and fighting terrorism, and their sacrifices deserve the highest level of respect.

He also expressed concern that Fazlur Rehman’s remarks had received attention in Indian media. According to Memon, statements that create negative perceptions about Pakistan’s institutions can be used by hostile elements against the country’s interests. He urged political leaders to exercise caution while discussing sensitive national matters.

Referring to the recent tensions between Pakistan and India, Memon praised the armed forces for defending the country. He said the Pakistan Army, Air Force and Navy had performed their responsibilities with professionalism, while the entire nation stood united in support of the country’s security.

He emphasised that political differences are part of democracy, but national institutions and the sacrifices of martyrs should remain above political disputes. He said disagreements between political parties should never weaken national unity.

Memon recalled that the Pakistan Peoples Party had strongly opposed the governments of former military rulers General Zia-ul-Haq and General Pervez Musharraf. However, he said the party had never targeted the institution of the armed forces or questioned the sacrifices of soldiers.

He also referred to an international event where PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari chose not to criticise Pakistan’s leadership while speaking abroad despite political differences at home. Memon said political leaders should always protect the country’s image on international platforms.